Mathieu declined interview requests, as did his adopted parents Tyrone and Sheila Mathieu. The story details the player’s struggle with marijuana, as well as personal issues pertaining to his biological father’s conviction for murder.

The story also indicated that Mathieu’s participation on video and on fliers in promoting parties at a local night club were potential NCAA violations that would jeopardize any plans he might have had of attempting to become eligible at LSU. Mathieu was permanently dismissed from the team after allegedly failing multiple drug tests. However, he has two years of NCAA eligibility remaining.

“They called from blocked numbers repeatedly, asking me why I was dodging them,” said Tyrone Mathieu. “They came to my home and that of my elderly mother on multiple occasions.”

The family hired an attorney, who sent a letter to SI writer Pete Thamel. The letter read in part:

“You have been consistently harassing Mr. Mathieu and his family regarding personal issues. Mr. Mathieu informed you that they have no desire to respond to your inquires. Despite repeated assertions of this position…you have trespassed on the Mathieu’s property and otherwise violated their privacy…Demand is made that you cease and desist from any attempts at making contact with Mr. Mathieu or any member of his family.”

Additionally, WBRZ-TV, the Baton Rouge, La. ABC affiliate, interviewed a club promoter who accused SI of bribing him to say things about Mathieu. Another player mentioned in the SI article, LSU defensive lineman Anthony Johnson, denies that he willingly participated in promoting a party at the night club.